Evacuation checklist: how to leave home in 15 minutes and what to take
What to do when authorities order an evacuation: what to grab in 5, 15 and 30 minutes, how to secure your home before leaving, where to go and what to do if you evacuate by car or on foot.
In short
- If authorities tell you to evacuate, go. Don't wait to see the water or the fire: roads fill up fast.
- Have three lists: what to take in 5 minutes (people, pets, go bag, medication, documents), in 15 and in 30.
- Before leaving: shut off gas and water if told to, unplug appliances, lock up and leave a note.
- Follow the routes authorities give and tell your out-of-area contact where you end up.
Evacuations are usually ordered for floods, wildfires, hurricanes, chemical accidents or when a dam or building becomes unsafe. Often you have only minutes. People who prepared a list in advance leave on time and don’t forget what matters. Everyone else loses precious time hunting for documents or a charger.
This guide is adapted from FEMA’s Ready.gov evacuation guidance, which is in the public domain.
If you have only 5 minutes
- Everyone in the home, including older relatives and neighbors who need help
- Pets, in a carrier or on a leash
- Everyone’s go bag
- Daily medication and glasses
- Phone, charger and power bank
- ID (driver’s license, passport) and cash, if not already in the bag
- House and car keys
- Weather-appropriate clothes and closed shoes
If you have 15 minutes
Add:
- Your folder of important documents (deeds, insurance, medical records) or a USB stick with copies
- Laptop or hard drive with family photos
- Water and food for another day
- Your pet’s kit
- Baby supplies (diapers, formula, bottles)
- Medical equipment and its batteries
- A blanket or sleeping bag for each person
If you have 30 minutes
- Clothes for several days
- Toiletries
- Irreplaceable sentimental items
- Tools and a spare flashlight
- Non-perishable food from the pantry
Before you leave
- Shut off gas, water and electricity if authorities tell you to, or if you have time and know how.
- Unplug appliances.
- Close windows and doors, lock up.
- Leave a note where it can be seen: when you left and where you’re going.
- Tell your out-of-area contact.
On the road
- Use the routes authorities specify, even if they seem longer. Shortcuts may be blocked or flooded.
- Never drive through moving water: 12 inches (30 cm) of water can float a car.
- Keep the radio on a local station and watch for emergency alerts.
- Keep your tank at least half full at all times, especially in risk seasons.
- Help those without a car, if you have room.
Prepare now
- Pick two destinations: one nearby and one in another town. Add them to your family emergency plan.
- Learn how to shut off gas, water and electricity in your home.
- Print this list and put it on the fridge or next to your go bag.
- Run a drill: how long does it take to get out with everything on the 5-minute list?
For floods, see also our guide on what to do in a flood.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to leave if there's an evacuation order?
Evacuation orders are issued when authorities believe staying puts lives at risk. Staying may mean rescuers can't reach you, or must risk their own lives to get you out. Follow official instructions from emergency alerts, local radio and TV or responders on the ground.
Where do I go if I have no family elsewhere?
Authorities announce emergency shelters, often in schools, sports halls or community centers. Follow alerts, local radio and your local government's channels. If you have family or friends in a safe area, staying with them is usually more comfortable.
What about pets?
Take them with you. Don't leave them tied up or shut indoors: you may not be able to return for days. See our guide to pets in emergencies.
What if I don't have a car?
Tell neighbors and family in advance and agree who will pick you up. In an organized evacuation, authorities usually provide transport from announced pickup points. Pack your go bag so you can carry it on foot.
Sources and further reading
Preper is for general education and does not replace instructions from your local authorities or advice from a doctor. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.